Broomall Fire's Family Ties: Tom Murray Jr.

Marple Newtown Patch wants you to get to know your first responders. They do dangerous work and Patch would like to recognize them.

Last week, Marple Newtown Patch in town who have served and still serve together on the front lines with the .

This week, Marple Newtown Patch gets to know Tom Murray Jr., assistant fire chief of the Broomall Fire Co. and police chief of the . Stay tuned next week for Matt Murray's interview.

Name: Thomas J. Murray Jr.

Age: 59

Hometown: Broomall

Rank/Title: Assistant Chief

How long have you been with the Broomall Fire Co.? 43 years.

What do you like about your job?

The job of a firefighter is very rewarding when you respond to and help someone deal with a problem. Whether that problem is a serious fire or something less serious, it is gratifying to be able to help people through their problem.

What do you dislike about your job?

Having to watch a homeowner or business owner walk through their property after a major fire has destroyed everything they have worked hard for. It is heartbreaking for them to see the devastation that fire can cause and that is very difficult to watch.

What inspired you to become a firefighter?

My father Tom Murray Sr. was a volunteer firefighter and I admired what he did. When I was a child growing up I was always fascinated with the fire company and spent as much time as I could at the fire station with my father. I guess you could say it is in my blood.

What do you like about the Marple Newtown Area?

The Marple Newtown area is a quiet, safe community. It is a great place to raise a family as my wife Ellen and I have done. The community has great emergency services and employees who care about the township.

What do you want the general public to know about the Broomall Fire Co.?

The Broomall Fire Company is an all volunteer organization which responds to almost 800 calls each year. Approximately 85 percent of our firefighters are nationally certified firefighters and I count them among the best in the business. Unfortunately, our numbers are dwindling fast and we could use some new members willing to help the community be continuing to provide fire services on a volunteer basis.